Breaking: T&T Records Its FIRST Case of Monkeypox (Mpox)

The Ministry of Health announced a short while ago this evening (Tuesday 11th July 2023) that the first confirmed case of Monkeypox virus was detected in Trinidad and Tobago today.

The Ministry said the patient is a middle-aged male with travel related history. He was tested earlier today and the sample was then sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency's (CARPHA) laboratory via the Trinidad Public Health Lab. The relevant County Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) has initiated the local public health response, which includes contact tracing.

The Ministry is taking this opportunity to remind the public that the Mpox virus continues to circulate worldwide. According to the World Health Organization's (WHO) update (as at 4th July 2023), 88,144 cases have been detected globally amongst 112 countries and there has been a total of 149 deaths.

The Mpox virus can range from mild disease to severe illness and is spread through close contact or through respiratory droplets. Common signs and symptoms may include a skin rash or mucosal lesions which can last two (2) to four (4) weeks, accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is advised to visit their nearest health facility.

The public is also reminded to maintain good hygiene practices such as hand washing or sanitizing where appropriate.

The Ministry is reminding the public that the Mpox vaccine is available in Trinidad and Tobago. However, at this time, it would be utilized for contacts of known positives only.

The Ministry said it will continue to provide updates to the public as necessary. Further information on the Monkeypox virus can be found on the Ministry's website at www.health.gov.tt.

​This is a developing story - refresh this page for updates.